Jonathan Faranda and Lindsay Gordon went all out to commemorate their union with a weekend-long celebration in the bride's hometown of Sarasota, Florida.
Starting with a semi-formal rehearsal dinner on Friday night with the immediate family, guests flew in on Saturday and were greeted with a casual beach barbecue welcome party at Siesta Key. Sunday came and Lindsay donned on a sheath-silhouetted beaded wedding dress from Saja Wedding while Jonathan dressed in a sharp tuxedo with a royal purple inner vest and tie from Men's Wearhouse.
As part of Jewish tradition, the couple officiated their union with a ketubah signing ceremony – a Jewish marriage contract that is performed by a rabbi. A beautiful and touching ceremony followed as Lindsay and Jonathan dedicated their handwritten vows to each other on the waterfront of Van Wezel Performing Arts Center.
"As Jon is not Jewish, the rabbi worked with us to build a ceremony that was comfortable for the both of us, and he even suggested we write our own wedding vows," explains Lindsay.
A grand dinner reception followed as guests made their way into the Performing Arts Center that was embellished with purple, fuchsia, magenta, and silver accents. The bright and rich colours were reflected in the vibrant blooms arranged by Tiger Lily, the textured table cloths of each table setting, and enhanced by the candlelight of the structured centerpieces.
Toasts were given, a surprise video presentation by Lindsay's sister followed, and the cutting of the purple quilted wedding cake took place before a crazy time of dancing commenced.
"My mother was my primary wedding assistant, mostly because she was on the ground in Sarasota and I was in North Carolina. She worked so hard to make the day beautiful and to set a special, elegant atmosphere."